Independent Councillors do not serve any political party's or donors therefore the community well being and residents are the only concerns. Arguably they are the only ones who can aspire to the 7 Nolan Principles of Public Life.
Definitely! Independents are growing in numbers on Councils across the country as people get disillusioned with party politics interfering with Local matters. In many cases they hold the balance in councils therefore able to prevent damaging policies being introduced that are not in the community interest. Independents don't get told how to vote by political party enforcers.
Only vote for the Independent candidate on the ballot paper if you are happy with the election pledge. Sometimes more than one candidate can be voted for on the ballot paper, but just voting for the Independent candidate greatly increases their chances of being elected.
Surrey County Council proposals for a Unitary appear to have hit the buffers, but appears to be heading for a Mayoral Authority.
Let's put the community first!
Please Note Voter ID requirements https://www.surreyheath.gov.uk/elections-and-voting